Third-Party Inspection Services China: 2025-2026 Complete Guide

Key Highlights

Hiring a third-party inspection company provides an unbiased assessment of your product quality and protects your supply chain.
Effective quality control in China is essential-approximately 30% of non-food products fail initial inspections without proper QC measures.
Third-party experts verify that your products meet international standards including CCC, RoHS, CE, FCC, and other regulatory requirements.
Detailed shipment inspection reports enhance your credibility, reduce costly recalls, and ensure customer satisfaction.
Early detection of quality issues during production saves significant time and money compared to post-shipment failures.
Independent audits and inspections allow you to partner with reliable, ethical, and capable suppliers from the start.

Introduction

Sourcing products from China remains a cornerstone of global supply chains, but it carries inherent risks that many importers overlook. How can you be certain that the goods you receive meet your exact specifications? Without verification mechanisms in place, you risk receiving defective products, missing regulatory compliance requirements, and damaging your brand reputation.

This is where professional third-party inspection services become invaluable. By implementing a robust quality control process, you can verify that your products meet required specifications and international standards-a practice that’s no longer optional for competitive businesses. Ensuring high product quality isn’t just good practice; it’s essential for protecting your investment, satisfying your customers, and maintaining compliance with increasingly stringent global regulations.

Understanding Third-Party Inspection Services in China

A third-party inspection service is fundamentally straightforward: you hire an independent company to perform quality control on your behalf. These agencies serve as your eyes and ears on the factory floor, evaluating everything from raw materials to finished goods against your predefined quality standards.

This approach is distinctly different from manufacturer self-inspection or direct buyer oversight. Third-party inspectors operate with complete independence, meaning their only obligation is to deliver objective, impartial findings-not to please the supplier or the buyer. This neutrality is what makes these services so powerful.

What Sets Third-Party Quality Control Apart

When sourcing from China, you have three primary options for quality assurance:

1. Manufacturer Self-Inspection: The factory checks its own products. This creates an obvious conflict of interest, as suppliers have financial incentives to report favorable results regardless of actual quality.

2. Direct Buyer Oversight: You travel to China or send team members to physically monitor production. While this offers some control, it’s prohibitively expensive, time-consuming, and creates supplier tension over constant surveillance.

3. Third-Party Inspection (Independent): An unaffiliated professional company conducts the inspection. Since these experts have no relationship with you or your supplier, their only goal is accurate, impartial findings.

Third-party inspection companies provide the crucial unbiased assessment that in-house or supplier-led quality control cannot deliver. This independence is essential for getting a true picture of your product quality before it leaves the factory.

This level of quality assurance enables informed decision-making, ensuring goods meet exact specifications and preventing problems before shipment. It’s a reliable safeguard against substandard products and supply chain disruptions.

The Importance of Independent Inspections for Importers

Skipping independent product inspections exposes your business to catastrophic risks. According to industry data, approximately 30% of products manufactured in China fail quality inspections without third-party oversight. This failure rate translates directly into defective shipments, supply chain disruptions, and financial losses.

Financial Impact of Defects

The cost of NOT inspecting far exceeds inspection fees. Consider these scenarios:

Product rejection at customs: Failed regulatory compliance results in shipment holds, storage fees, and return shipping costs.
Returns and refunds: Customers receiving defective products generate costly returns and chargebacks, often resulting in negative reviews.
Production rework: Catching defects after shipment requires renegotiation with suppliers and potentially scrapping entire batches.
Brand damage: One viral negative review about poor quality can destroy months of marketing efforts.

Regulatory Compliance Risk

Every major market-the United States, European Union, Canada, and others-enforces specific regulatory compliance rules. Without verification:

Electronics and appliances must comply with CCC (China Compulsory Certification), RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances), and FCC regulations.
As of August 1, 2027, the new GB 26572-2025 standard becomes mandatory for all electrical and electronic products in China, significantly tightening restrictions on hazardous substances and introducing new labeling requirements.
Consumer goods require proper labeling (Made in China, safety warnings, ingredient lists).
Food and cosmetics face FDA and specialized regulatory requirements.

An independent inspection ensures your products clear these regulatory hurdles before reaching your country’s customs, avoiding costly delays, fines, or complete shipment rejection.

Key Benefits of Hiring Third-Party Experts for China Inspection

Third-party inspection services provide numerous tangible advantages that extend far beyond simple peace of mind. These services form the foundation of modern supply chain risk management.

Protecting Your Supply Chain Against Product Defects

Identifying product defects before shipment is exponentially more cost-effective than addressing them post-delivery. Early detection prevents:

Costly rework: Fixing issues at the factory is dramatically cheaper than processing returns from customers.
Shipment delays: Defects caught during inspection allow corrective actions before production completes, avoiding missed delivery dates.
Inventory waste: Preventing defective products from entering your warehouse eliminates storage costs and clearance losses.
Supply chain disruption: One bad shipment can cascade through your entire operation, affecting your ability to fulfill customer orders.

By integrating inspections into your quality control process, you can:

Reduce financial impact of rework and wasted resources by up to 60%
Avoid shipment delays caused by non-compliant or faulty items
Maintain a smooth, efficient supply chain from factory to end consumer

Enhancing Credibility with Reliable Quality Reports

After each inspection, you receive detailed documentation that serves purposes far beyond a simple pass/fail verdict. Comprehensive inspection reports include:

Photographic evidence with detailed descriptions of sampled products
Test results verifying functionality, materials, and workmanship
Objective data documenting compliance with your specifications
Defect classifications clearly categorizing issues by severity

This documentation provides concrete proof that your products meet agreed-upon standards. When communicating with suppliers, having clear photographic and numerical evidence transforms negotiations from subjective disputes into factual discussions backed by independent verification.

Furthermore, these detailed reports strengthen your position with:

Retailers and distributors who require proof of quality compliance
End consumers who increasingly demand transparency about product standards
Regulatory bodies that may require documentation of compliance efforts

Ultimately, this professional approach demonstrates your commitment to quality, leading to greater customer satisfaction and repeat business.

Types of Quality Control Inspections Offered in China

Professional inspection services offer multiple inspection types designed to monitor products at different production stages. Understanding which inspections apply to your situation is crucial for building an effective quality control strategy.

Pre-Production Inspection (PPI): Verifying Raw Materials Before Production Begins

A Pre-Production Inspection occurs before manufacturing starts and focuses on evaluating the quality and quantity of raw materials and components. During a PPI, inspectors:

Verify that suppliers have provided the correct materials, components, and accessories
Conduct detailed checks of material specifications, colors, dimensions, and quality
Test sample materials to confirm they meet your requirements
Identify potential issues before expensive production begins

Why PPI Matters: Catching material defects early allows suppliers to source replacement materials before committing to large-scale production. This prevents the scenario where an entire production run uses substandard components.

Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI): Final Quality Verification Before Shipment

A Pre-Shipment Inspection is one of the most critical inspection types. It occurs once at least 80% of your order is produced and packaged for shipping. During a PSI:

An inspector randomly selects product samples using ISO 2859-1 statistical sampling procedures
Products are checked against your detailed quality checklist
Packaging, labeling, and quantity are verified
This represents your last opportunity to catch problems before final payment and shipment

Aspect of PSI	Details
Timing	Conducted when at least 80% of production is complete
Sampling Method	ISO 2859-1 standard sampling procedures for objective assessment
Verification Points	Product specifications, quantity, packaging, labeling, compliance markings
Purpose	Final defect identification and resolution before shipment and payment release
Decision Point	Accept shipment, reject entire batch, or request rework before proceeding

During Production Inspection (DUPRO): Real-Time Process Monitoring

A During Production Inspection occurs when approximately 20% of your order is complete. This early-stage inspection allows you to:

Monitor manufacturing processes while production is underway
Catch defects early, minimizing the number of faulty units produced
Request immediate corrective actions before issues affect the entire batch
Provide feedback that allows suppliers to adjust processes mid-production

The advantage of DUPRO is timing: correcting problems at 20% production completion prevents wasting 80% of materials and labor on defective products.

Container Loading Check (CLC): Final Shipment Verification

The Container Loading Check is the final physical inspection before your goods leave the factory. During a CLC, an inspector:

Supervises the entire loading process to ensure proper handling
Randomly selects cartons to verify product quality matches approved samples
Confirms correct quantities and product variants are loaded
Verifies all packaging contains correct labeling, barcodes, and packing materials
Checks that the container itself is in good condition and properly sealed

A CLC reduces the risk of damage during shipment by ensuring proper loading techniques and container condition.

Factory Audits vs. Product Inspections: Understanding the Critical Difference

While both are essential, these services serve fundamentally different purposes and address different risks:

Aspect	Factory Audit	Product Inspection
Focus	The manufacturer and their systems	The actual products being produced
Timing	Conducted before placing orders (supplier qualification)	Conducted during or after production
Assessment	Facility infrastructure, processes, staff, certifications, compliance systems	Product quality, specifications, defects, packaging, compliance markings
Purpose	Verify the supplier is reliable, capable, and ethical	Verify the specific batch meets your standards
Duration	2-5 days for comprehensive audit	4-8 hours for standard inspection
Strategic Use	Protect your entire sourcing strategy	Protect this specific order

Assessing Supplier Reliability Through Audits

Supplier audits provide critical due diligence that prevents partnerships with unqualified or unethical manufacturers. A comprehensive factory audit examines:

Production capacity and machinery: Can the factory handle your order volume and complexity?
Quality management systems: Does the facility maintain documented processes, calibration records, and internal QC procedures?
Labor practices and safety: Are workers treated fairly? Are OSHA-equivalent standards met?
Environmental compliance: Does the facility meet local environmental regulations?
Legal legitimacy: Is the business properly registered and operating legally?

A technical audit, in particular, evaluates equipment maintenance records, statistical process control charts, and defect-rate history. Many factories claim ISO 9001 certification, but a proper audit verifies whether systems are genuine operational practices or merely paperwork.

Ensuring Product Standards with Detailed Inspections

While audits assess the factory’s potential, product inspections verify actual output. Inspectors use detailed checklists to evaluate:

Materials and material origins
Workmanship and assembly quality
Functionality and performance testing
Appearance and finish
Packaging integrity and labeling accuracy
Compliance with specifications and regulatory requirements

These inspections happen at various production stages, allowing for immediate corrective action if deviations are discovered. The combination of periodic audits and consistent product inspections creates a comprehensive quality assurance system.

How the Third-Party China Inspection Process Works

Understanding the inspection workflow helps you prepare properly and set realistic expectations.

Step-by-Step Breakdown from Booking to Report

Step 1: Prepare and Communicate

Define your quality standards and create a detailed product specification sheet
Develop a comprehensive inspection checklist specific to your product
Identify which inspection type(s) you need and when they should occur
Communicate with your supplier to confirm production timeline

Step 2: Book the Inspection

Contact inspection companies with your product details and supplier location
Provide your quality checklist and specify inspection requirements
Confirm scheduling, costs, and any travel-related fees
Most reputable companies offer online booking platforms for convenience

Step 3: Inspector Coordination

The inspection company coordinates with your factory to schedule the visit
The inspector travels to the facility on the agreed date
Factory management is notified to ensure relevant personnel are available

Step 4: On-Site Inspection

The inspector conducts opening meeting with factory management
Raw materials, work-in-process, or finished goods are inspected per your checklist
Products are tested according to your specifications and relevant standards
Photographs document findings and defects
Detailed notes are recorded on all observations

Step 5: Report Delivery

Within 24-48 hours, you receive a comprehensive inspection report
The report includes photos, test results, defect classifications, and findings
You can approve the shipment, request rework, or reject the batch based on results
The report serves as documentation for your records and customer inquiries

Common Checklists Used by QC Experts

An effective inspection checklist is the foundation of consistent quality control. Your checklist should:

Be specific and objective: Vague criteria lead to inconsistent inspections. Specify exact dimensions, colors, materials, and acceptable tolerances.
Be bilingual: Include both English and Chinese to eliminate translation ambiguity.
Categorize defects appropriately: Define what constitutes a critical defect (safety hazard), major defect (significantly affects function), or minor defect (cosmetic issue).
Establish clear AQL standards: Define acceptable quality levels (AQL) for each defect category. Common AQL levels are:
- 0.65% for high-tolerance products requiring near-zero defects
- 1.5% for most consumer goods
- 2.5% for standard products
- 4.0% for lower-tolerance applications

A comprehensive checklist typically includes:

Product specifications (dimensions, materials, colors, weights)
Functionality tests (does it work as intended?)
Workmanship evaluation (seams, welds, assembly quality)
Packaging specifications (materials, labeling, barcode placement)
Labeling compliance (Made in China, safety warnings, certifications)
Regulatory marking verification (CE mark, FCC, CCC, RoHS, etc.)

How to Choose a Trusted Third-Party QC Company in China

Selecting the right inspection partner is as important as deciding to use inspections at all. A trustworthy partner acts as a seamless extension of your team.

Key Credentials and Certifications to Look For

When evaluating inspection companies, prioritize:

International Accreditations

ISO 9001 certification indicates commitment to quality management systems
ISO/IEC 17020 accreditation ensures compliance with international inspection standards
CNAS (China National Accreditation Service) certification for Chinese-based companies

Industry-Specific Expertise

Does the company have demonstrated experience with your product category?
Are inspectors trained in relevant testing procedures (electronics, textiles, consumer goods)?
Do they understand the specific regulatory requirements for your target market?

Regulatory Knowledge

Understanding of CCC, RoHS, CE, FCC, and other applicable standards
Familiarity with new regulations like GB 26572-2025 (China’s mandatory RoHS standard effective August 2027)
Knowledge of labeling requirements, hazardous substance restrictions, and market-specific compliance

Transparency and Documentation

Clear, published pricing with no hidden fees
Sample inspection reports available for review
Written service agreements specifying scope, timeline, and deliverables

Reputation and Reviews from International Importers

Research the company’s track record:

Look for reviews specifically from importers in your country
Prioritize feedback from businesses similar to yours in size and product type
Check how companies respond to negative reviews and address complaints
Verify that the company has established operations in major manufacturing hubs (Shenzhen, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Yiwu)

Leading inspection companies operating throughout China include established international firms and specialized local providers. The best partners are those who:

Communicate clearly and respond quickly to questions
Provide detailed, photo-rich reports with objective findings
Maintain inspectors in your supplier’s geographic region for timely scheduling
Offer transparent pricing without surprise fees
Demonstrate willingness to support your quality objectives

Cost Factors When Hiring Third-Party Inspection Services in China: 2025-2026 Pricing

The cost of third-party inspections varies, but it’s consistently an investment that pays for itself many times over by preventing costly quality problems and delays. Understanding what influences pricing helps you budget effectively.

What Influences Pricing for Inspection Services

Inspector Daily Rates
Current market rates range from $149 to $350 per man-day, with $299 representing a typical mid-range all-inclusive fee for standard inspections. This rate covers:

10-12 hours of inspector time
Travel to factory (up to 60 km)
Preliminary checklist review
Photographic documentation
Detailed written report
Communication with client

Type of Inspection

Simple pre-shipment inspection: $150-$250
In-process inspection with testing: $200-$350
Factory audit (2-3 days): $500-$1,500+
Specialized testing or certifications: Additional $100-$500

Product Complexity

Simple products (basic clothing, accessories): Lower cost
Electronics with functional testing: Higher cost
Multi-component products requiring assembly verification: Premium pricing
Products requiring laboratory testing: Separate lab fees

Factory Location

Coastal manufacturing hubs (Shenzhen, Shanghai, Yiwu): Standard rates, quick scheduling
Remote or rural locations: Additional travel fees ($50-$100+)
Multiple inspection sites in same region: Potential bundling discounts

Additional Services

Expedited reporting: +10-25% premium
Detailed photo documentation: Included in standard fee
Video documentation: +$50-$150
Certification documents (CE, FCC): +$50-$200

Budget Optimization Strategies Without Sacrificing Quality

Maximize your inspection ROI with these proven strategies:

1. Create Detailed Checklists
A comprehensive, well-organized checklist ensures inspectors spend their time checking your top priorities, increasing efficiency and reducing wasted time.

2. Schedule in Advance
Booking well ahead of production deadlines eliminates rush fees and allows better scheduling flexibility. Many companies offer discounts for advance bookings.

3. Group Multiple Inspections
If you have multiple orders at the same factory or in the same region during similar timeframes, request bundled pricing. Some companies offer 10-20% discounts for multiple inspections.

4. Build Long-Term Relationships
Consistent, repeat business often qualifies for preferential pricing. Companies value reliable, regular clients and may offer volume discounts or priority scheduling.

5. Focus on High-Risk Stages
Rather than inspecting at every stage, prioritize inspections at critical points:

Pre-production (catch material issues)
At 50% completion (identify process problems)
Final pre-shipment (last chance to correct)

6. Use Warehouse Inspections
Some companies offer inspection services at centralized facilities (like Yiwu warehouses) at reduced rates ($5-$40 per man-hour vs. $299 per day). This is ideal for small orders or samples.

Cost-Benefit Analysis:
A typical $299 inspection might prevent:

$5,000+ in customer returns
$2,000+ in rework costs
$10,000+ in compliance fines
Immeasurable brand reputation damage

ROI = 20-50x investment in most scenarios.

Regulatory Compliance Requirements: What International Standards Apply to Your Products?

Understanding which regulations apply to your specific products is essential for preventing costly compliance failures.

Electronics and Electrical Products

CCC (China Compulsory Certification)
If you’re importing into China or manufacturing there, CCC marking is mandatory for 17 product categories and 106 product types. Recent additions include:

Explosion-proof lamps (May 2025)
Lithium-ion batteries (November 2025)
EV charging equipment (August 2026)

RoHS Compliance
The new GB 26572-2025 (China’s mandatory RoHS standard) becomes effective August 1, 2027, with a transition period through August 1, 2028. This standard restricts hazardous substances including:

Lead, mercury, cadmium (traditional RoHS substances)
Hexavalent chromium
New additions: Four phthalate categories (DEHP, DBP, BBP, DIBP)

Your inspection must verify compliance with both substance restrictions and new digital labeling requirements (including QR codes).

For EU Markets: CE Marking
Products sold in the EU require CE marking and compliance with the CE Marking Directive. Your inspection checklist must verify:

Proper CE marking affixed
Required technical documentation
Compliance with relevant EU Directives

For US Markets: FCC Compliance
Electronics sold in the US require FCC certification. Inspections should verify:

FCC ID marking on products
Proper labeling with FCC compliance statement
Documentation of certification

Consumer Goods and Packaging

Labeling Requirements
All consumer products require accurate labeling including:

“Made in China” origin marking
Product safety warnings (if applicable)
Ingredient lists (for food, cosmetics)
Barcode placement and format
Language requirements (English for most international markets)

WEEE and Recycling Symbols
Applicable for electronics and certain materials in EU markets.

Safety Certifications
Many consumer products require specific safety certifications depending on category (toys require CPSIA, for example).

Food and Cosmetics

Products in this category face the strictest requirements:

Laboratory testing for safety and purity
Ingredient documentation and approval
Traceability records
Specialized packaging requirements

Note: Food inspection failure rates in China are significantly higher (approximately 51%) compared to non-food products (30%), highlighting the importance of rigorous inspection protocols for consumables.

Common Reasons for Inspection Failures and How to Prevent Them

Understanding why products fail inspections helps you take proactive steps to prevent these issues.

Top Reasons Products Fail Inspection in China

1. Vague or Incomplete Specifications
Many importers share basic product information without providing detailed specification sheets. Factories then fill in the blanks based on cost-saving priorities, not your brand standards. This is the single most prevalent cause of inspection failures.

Prevention: Create comprehensive specification documents including exact dimensions (with tolerances), material specifications, color codes (Pantone/RAL), finish requirements, packaging details, and any functional requirements.

2. Price Pressure Leading to Quality Cuts
Unsustainably low prices force suppliers to protect margins by:

Using lower-grade materials
Skipping quality steps (deburring, curing times, testing)
Hiring less-skilled labor
Cutting corners on assembly

Prevention: Request competitive quotes but recognize that suspiciously low prices indicate corners will be cut. Budget adequately for quality.

3. Lack of Factory Process Control
Many factories, especially smaller operations, lack robust Quality Management Systems. Production occurs in a “black box” with little oversight of intermediate processes.

Prevention: Conduct factory audits to assess their process control capabilities before production begins. Use DUPRO inspections to verify processes are being followed.

4. Production Rushes and Last-Minute Scrambles
When suppliers fall behind schedule, they often resort to:

Running equipment 24/7 without proper maintenance
Forcing excessive worker overtime
Skipping quality checks
Unauthorized subcontracting to meet deadlines

Prevention: Allow adequate production timelines. Build in buffer time. Include contractual penalties for using unauthorized subcontractors.

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Conclusion

Hiring third-party experts for inspection services in China is no longer optional-it’s a fundamental requirement for protecting your supply chain, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining customer satisfaction. These services go far beyond simple quality checks; they represent a comprehensive risk management strategy that protects every aspect of your import business.

The evidence is compelling: a $299 investment in a single inspection can prevent $50,000+ in losses from defective products, compliance failures, or customer returns. More importantly, it protects your brand reputation in an increasingly quality-conscious global marketplace.

By understanding the types of inspections available, the regulatory landscape that affects your products, and the factors that influence quality outcomes, you position yourself to make informed decisions that strengthen your supply chain and profitability.

Whether you’re new to importing from China or looking to optimize your current quality control practices, the partnership with trusted third-party professionals is an investment in your business success. The combination of factory audits to qualify suppliers, strategic inspections at critical production stages, and detailed documentation creates a system that catches problems before they become crises.

The time to implement robust quality control is now. As global regulatory standards continue to tighten-particularly with new mandates like GB 26572-2025 coming in 2027-having established relationships with reliable inspection partners positions you to comply smoothly and maintain competitive advantage.

If you’re ready to transform your China sourcing from reactive problem-solving to proactive risk management, the next step is consulting with professionals who understand your specific product category and market requirements. The initial investment in expert guidance pays dividends through higher quality, fewer delays, and stronger customer loyalty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the serious risks of not using third-party inspection services?
A: Without inspections, you face: defective product shipments (up to 30% failure rate), supply chain disruptions, customer returns and refunds, brand reputation damage, regulatory compliance fines, and customs rejection of shipments. Each of these scenarios costs substantially more than the inspection itself.

Q: How do I book a third-party inspection in China?
A: Contact an inspection service provider and provide your product details, supplier information, and quality checklist. Confirm timing, costs, and any travel-related fees. Most companies allow online booking. The provider then coordinates with your supplier to schedule the factory visit.

Q: What are the most common types of quality control inspections?
A: The main types are: Pre-Production Inspection (PPI) – evaluates raw materials before production begins; During Production Inspection (DUPRO) – monitors quality at approximately 20% completion; Pre-Shipment Inspection (PSI) – final check at 80% completion; and Container Loading Check (CLC) – verification of loading and container sealing.

Q: How much does an inspection typically cost in 2025-2026?
A: Standard inspection costs range from $149-$350 per man-day, with $299 being a typical all-inclusive rate covering up to 12 hours of inspection, travel, documentation, and reporting. Budget-conscious options ($150/day) and premium services exist depending on provider and requirements.

Q: What is AQL and why does it matter in inspections?
A: AQL (Acceptable Quality Level) is the statistical threshold defined in ISO 2859-1 that sets the maximum acceptable number of defects in a sample. Common AQL levels are 1.5% and 2.5%. If sample defects exceed your AQL, the entire batch is rejected. AQL prevents subjective quality decisions.

Q: What’s the difference between factory audits and product inspections?
A: Factory audits (2-5 days) evaluate the manufacturer’s systems, capabilities, and compliance before you place orders. Product inspections (4-8 hours) verify that specific products meet your standards during or after production. Both are essential but serve different purposes.

Q: What regulatory standards do I need to worry about?
A: This depends on your market and product type. Key standards include: CCC (electronics in China), RoHS/GB 26572-2025 (hazardous substance restrictions), CE marking (EU), FCC (US electronics), CPSIA (US toys), and proper labeling (Made in China, safety warnings). Your inspection company should verify compliance with applicable standards.

Q: How can I reduce inspection costs without sacrificing quality?
A: Create detailed checklists to maximize inspector efficiency, schedule in advance to avoid rush fees, bundle multiple inspections for discounts, build long-term relationships with providers, focus inspections on high-risk production stages, and consider warehouse inspections for small orders.

Q: What happens if my products fail inspection?
A: You have options: request rework at the factory (fastest solution), request partial shipment of passing units with rework batch following, negotiate terms with the supplier, or reject the entire batch and cancel the order. This is why inspections at earlier stages (DUPRO) provide more flexibility than final inspections (PSI).

Last Updated: January 2026
Regulatory Information Current Through: January 2026
Pricing Based on 2025-2026 Market Rates